Join NARA
Access collective purchasing power, vetted vendor partnerships, and a community of Nashville's best independent restaurant operators.
Membership is by application only. 37+ Nashville restaurants and counting.
What Members Get
Negotiated Vendor Pricing
Access pre-negotiated rates with all four major broadline distributors and 20+ vetted service providers. Pricing you cannot access as an individual operator.
Peer Network
A confidential community of independent restaurant operators who share knowledge, solve problems together, and support each other.
NARA Connect Events
Bi-annual gatherings connecting you with fellow operators and trusted vendors. Real relationships, not networking theater.
Vendor Vetting
We do the due diligence so you don't have to. Every vendor partner is vetted against our Win-Win-Win standard before they're introduced to members.
Industry Advocacy
Direct representation in vendor negotiations and collective voice on issues affecting Nashville's independent restaurant community.
Ongoing Resources
Industry insights, operational best practices, and access to expertise from across NARA's vendor and member network.
Trusted by Nashville's best independent restaurants
Bad Idea (NYT Top 50) · Tailor (Michelin Recommended) · Lockeland Table (James Beard) · Maiz de la Vida (James Beard) · Rosepepper Cantina · Urban Grub · Germantown Cafe · Homegrown Taproom · and 29 more
Who Can Join
NARA membership is by application. We accept restaurants that meet the following criteria:
Whether you operate one location or multiple concepts, if you meet these criteria, you belong here.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does membership cost?
Contact us for current membership details. NARA is structured so that membership value far exceeds the cost through vendor savings alone.
How does vendor pricing work?
NARA negotiates directly with vendors on behalf of all members collectively. The combined purchasing volume of 37+ restaurants gives us leverage that individual operators cannot achieve alone. Members access these rates directly through their existing vendor accounts.
What area does NARA cover?
NARA serves the greater Nashville and Middle Tennessee area. Our members operate across Davidson County and surrounding communities.
How is NARA different from a buying group?
Traditional buying groups focus only on purchasing. NARA adds community, vendor vetting, events, and advocacy. Our Win-Win-Win model means every partnership must benefit restaurants, vendors, and the alliance. We reject arrangements that benefit one party at another's expense.
How long does it take to join?
The process starts with a conversation. We want to understand your restaurant and ensure NARA is the right fit. Most operators are onboarded within a week of applying.
Apply to Join NARA
What happens next
Questions before applying? Email brandon@naranashville.com or call (615) 476-5259.